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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Shaping A Sustainable Community Center

Author:
Era shae Brown
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Shaping A Sustainable Community Center

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design harmonizes with its volcanic surroundings to create a versatile community center that fosters local engagement and environmental awareness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance, reflecting traditional Icelandic building techniques.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels, promoting sustainability while ensuring structural efficiency and aesthetic warmth.
03
Features an innovative bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and maximizes views of the surrounding volcanic landscape.
04
Includes an indoor greenhouse as an educational space, demonstrating ecological practices and local biodiversity.
05
Designed with a natural water drainage system that integrates seamlessly into the landscape, reinforcing sustainability principles.
The Lake Myvatn Community Center project exemplifies a thoughtful approach to architecture that integrates seamlessly with its surrounding environment. Situated on the northern coast of Iceland, near the volcanic Lake Myvatn, this community center serves as both a functional space for local engagement and an ambassador for sustainability in design. The project is not merely a building but a manifestation of the community's values, focusing on ecological sensitivity and the promotion of social interaction.

At its core, the Lake Myvatn Community Center represents a commitment to preserving and enhancing the natural landscape while providing a versatile venue for various community activities. Designed to accommodate events ranging from workshops to social gatherings, the center fosters a sense of belonging among local residents. It stands as a hub for education and interaction, inviting people to explore sustainable practices and engage with their environment actively.

The architecture of the community center features a series of thoughtfully designed elements that work together to create a cohesive atmosphere. The structure incorporates cross-laminated timber, which serves as a sustainable building material that offers durability and a reduced environmental impact. In addition, the use of basalt and basalt fiber, conveniently sourced from the local geography, contributes both to the building's strength and its aesthetic connection to the natural landscape. Large glass facades allow for ample natural light, connecting indoor spaces with the outside world and making the scenery an integral part of the user experience.

The building's layout is agile and user-friendly, designed to accommodate a range of community functions effectively. Gathering spaces, flexible meeting rooms, and an indoor greenhouse are all thoughtfully placed to promote interaction and education regarding sustainability. The greenhouse is particularly noteworthy, as it not only provides a space for year-round plant cultivation but also serves as a practical demonstration of ecological practices for visitors and locals alike. The incorporation of natural materials such as stone for landscaping establishes a solid foundation that respects and complements the volcanic terrain surrounding Lake Myvatn.

A unique design approach is evident in the community center's roof structure, which features sloping angles that echo traditional Icelandic turf houses. This feature serves a dual purpose: it provides aesthetic appeal and functionality in minimizing snow accumulation, while also enabling passive solar heating and cooling. The project integrates green roof systems that support local flora, providing insulation and enhancing biodiversity, thus contributing to overall environmental resilience.

Sustainability is central to the design philosophy of the Lake Myvatn Community Center. Utilizing geothermal heating, rainwater harvesting, and greywater recycling techniques, the building operates with a focus on minimizing its ecological footprint. The thoughtful orientation of the building maximizes both natural light and prevailing winds, reducing reliance on artificial energy sources and fostering a deeper connection between users and their natural surroundings.

Overall, the Lake Myvatn Community Center serves as a model for modern architecture that respects its geographic and cultural context. By challenging conventional building practices and prioritizing community engagement, this project highlights how architecture can serve as a catalyst for local relationships and ecological awareness. The design invites visitors and residents to explore the intersection of nature and community through innovative architectural ideas and solutions.

For those interested in delving deeper into the project's intricacies, a review of the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide valuable insights into the nuanced approaches taken. The architectural details present a practical representation of how sustainability and functionality can coexist, inspiring future projects aimed at enhancing community life and promoting environmental responsibility. Explore the presentation of the Lake Myvatn Community Center to fully appreciate the comprehensive design and community-oriented vision that defines this exemplary architectural endeavor.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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